Like other credentials or certifications for consumer products, some of these services charge security software firms for inclusion in testing. For this rundown, we looked to AV-Test, AV-Comparatives, MRG Effitas, and SE Labs. Luckily, there are independent firms devoted to providing trustworthy data that we can use to rate security apps. It’s impossible for even an experienced critic to effectively test antivirus suites as we would other products. How We Selected the Best Antivirus Software No matter what you choose, your computer will be better off with them than without them. There’s good antivirus software for every device, both free and paid, which can help ensure that there are no insidious programs running on your devices without your knowledge. The internet is barely recognizable compared to what it looked like fifteen years ago, but even now it’s still crucial that you have something guarding you against the less visible, more insidious threats. But it’s also packed with sites, ads, and scammers looking to load your computer with viruses and malware, and to part you from your money. The internet is packed with ways to have fun, educate yourself, spend money, and do just about anything else you can imagine.